Advice on Tripod

Barsoomian187 · Nov 28, 2010

Hi Guys,

New memeber here.

I recentlly upgraded my Canon EOS 300D to a 7D with a EFS 17-55mm. (wow what a difference)
Anyway i am looking into getting a tripod to get those sharper crisper shots etc but am not sure what exactly to go for.

I do some travel, mostly for work and would be looking for something compact, light but capable of supporting the weight.
I am guessing i need carbon.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated?

Also are the Tripod Legs and Heads inter-changeable accross manufacturers?

Thanks,
DTS

usayit · Nov 28, 2010

the easiest way to start shopping for a tripod is to first figure out your priorities

Light weight
Inexpensive
Sturdy

You can only pick two..... For example, if you place priority on Light Weight and Sturdy, the tripod will be expensive. If you choose light weight and inexpensive, the tripod won't be the most sturdy.

You should post which two are your priorities and a budget. Also, tripods do not have any complex components to wear or break. As such consider used market if you want to maximize bang for buck. Also, do you expect to eventually get heavier lenses?

I primarily travel light, and the following are some tripods to consider....

Gitzo traveler series - expensive but sturdy and lightweight carbon fiber. The most light weight model that folds very small can run up to $700

Benro angel - similar design to the gitzo but for a little more than half the price. They also have an aluminum version that is much cheaper.. a little heavier.. but folds just as small.

Cullmann magic 2 - Inexpensive, light weight, and a unique design that folds flat. Since it is inexpensive and light weight, it isn't the sturiest. Interestingly enough, it is still the most used tripod I carry because it folds completely flat and can even fit INSIDE my small shoulder bag. I would only recommend it for lightweight setups and I don't walk too far from it when in use.... just incase it tips over.

I often travel with a monopod instead... gitzo carbon traveler monopod. Weoghs next to nothing. I would also carry some bungie cords to lash to other things for a very stable support... When hiking, big rubber bands, or cords plus two other sticks make a usable tripod.

usayit · Nov 28, 2010

As long as the legs have a standard screw, heads and legs are interchangeable.

Barsoomian187 · Nov 28, 2010

My priorities are light weight and sturdy and the most compact as possible. For the amount i invested in my gear i'd rather protect that investment and spend the money on something that will not tip over in a little bit of wind. Having said that i'd like to go for bang for buck. but thank you very much for the guidance i will look into your reccomendations.

Barsoomian187 · Nov 28, 2010

oh and one other thing, someone mentioned that you should go x2 or x3 higher than the rated weight the tripod can support to provide enough support for ones camera and lens. True?

table1349 · Nov 28, 2010

Barsoomian187 said:
oh and one other thing, someone mentioned that you should go x2 or x3 higher than the rated weight the tripod can support to provide enough support for ones camera and lens. True?

Yes, however not for the ability to support for the gear, but for stability they provide to get those sharper crisper shots.

usayit · Nov 28, 2010

Barsoomian187 said:
oh and one other thing, someone mentioned that you should go x2 or x3 higher than the rated weight the tripod can support to provide enough support for ones camera and lens. True?

Yes and no.... depends on your priority. If you are traveling very very very light, you don't want to go way and above your gear's weight as the tripod itself becomes a burden. For that reason alone, I have several different tripods of various ratings and weights.